U of M reaches agreement with union to end strike, Farm Aid proceeding as planned

U of M Teamsters workers hold rally over contracts

University of Minnesota workers represented by the Teamsters 320 union rallied on Friday as they continue to strike for a new contract. FOX 9?s Leon Purvis has the latest.

MINNEAPOLIS (FOX 9) - The union representing workers at the University of Minnesota announced an end to the labor strike after reaching an agreement with U of M negotiators.

This puts the Farm Aid 40 Music Festival back on schedule after fears that the strike could cancel the event. 

U of M strike ends

What they're saying:

The Teamsters 320 union announced the strike was over when its negotiating team and U of M officials reached an agreement.

Here is a joint statement from the U of M and Teamsters Local 320: 

"In the spirit of cooperation, Teamsters Local 320 and the University of Minnesota have put their differences aside and come to a resolution in order to support the greater good of our University students, faculty and staff, farmers and Minnesota residents.

"The Farm Labor Movement originated in Minnesota and the Dakotas with a proud history that is recognized to this very day. The University of Minnesota began as an agricultural school and remains a vital part of Minnesota agriculture.

"Both parties look forward to returning to working to support our vital teaching, research, and outreach mission."

The agreement is for three years, and it includes a 3.5% wage increase in year one, another 3.5% increase in year two and a 3% increase for the third year. 

The agreement also maintained a June 30 expiration date. 

What they're saying:

"This was a hard-fought strike that we won on the picket lines and with solidarity from Teamster delivery drivers and other unions such as IATSE Local 13," says Erik Skoog, Local 320 president. "We also must recognize the solidarity from the Farm Aid performers and event coordinators who refused to cross a Teamster picket line." 

"We would not have been successful without the support of our 1,400 members," says Skoog. "I am so proud of their diligence and resolve in maintaining a concerted strike at multiple locations across the State of Minnesota." 

Farm Aid back on schedule

What's next:

There was speculation that the strike could jeopardize the Farm Aid 40 Music Festival, which is set to host Willie Nelson, Neil Young and Kenny Chesney, among others. 

READ MORE: Farm Aid music festival could cancel amid continuing strikes at U of M

Many of the artists, production crew staff and partners said they won't cross the picket line of the U of M workers who were striking. 

Farm Aid called on the university to come back to the bargaining table and settle the contract, otherwise the music festival may have to cancel or move, which would have had a financial impact for Farm Aid. 

With the end of the strike, Farm Aid is currently set for Sept. 20 and is taking place at Huntington Bank Stadium on the U of M campus. 

Tension at the picket line 

The backstory:

U of M police say officers cited 12 people who were striking in front of Pioneer Hall on Wednesday for "obstructing a lawful order after receiving multiple warnings." The group was released after receiving citations. 

No injuries were reported. 

READ MORE: U of M workers on strike cited by police for 'obstructing lawful order'

The union was demanding a wage increase of 3.5% or higher, which they say has been provided for other bargaining units. The union also wants to maintain the tentative agreements reached in mediation.